Tag Archives: windows server 2003

Today I will show you how to promote a Windows 2008 R2 Server to a Domain Controller.

On your Windows 2008 R2 server go to Start and type dcpromo into the search box as shown below.

When the program has been located double click on it to start the wizard.

On the following page read through the Operating System Compatibility warning and then click next.

The wizard will now ask us to Choose a Deployment Configuration. If the server is already part of a domain then choose Existing Forest. For the purpose of this tutorial we shall set up a new domain so choose Create a new domain in a new forest.

On the next page of the wizard you are asked to pick a FQDN for your new domain. Enter a domain of your choice and then click next.

We are now asked to choose the domain functional level. If your domain is only going to have Windows Server 2008 R2 machines on it then choose Windows Server 2008 R2. If however you are intending to run systems with Windows Server 2003 in your domain at some point then you will need to choose Windows Server 2003. WARNING Once the domain functional level has been set at Windows Server 2008 R2 it can’t be reduced. This means that if your ever needed to add a Windows Server 2003 server to your domain you couldn’t.

Will will now be taken to the Additional Domain Controller Options page. Make sure that the DNS Server option is ticked and then click next. When a warning appears asking if you want to continue click yes.

On the next page you are asked to specify locations for the Database, Log and Sysvol folders. You can either accept the defaults or create your own locations. Once configured click next.

You will now be asked for a Directory Services Restore Mode Administrator Password. Enter your chosen password twice and then click next.

You will now be shown the Summary page. Review your choices and when happy click next. Active Directory Domain Services will now be installed onto your server hence promoting it to a Domain Controller.

About the Author

Hi I am Chris Wakefield the owner of ComTech IT Support. I provide Windows and Linux based IT Support, laptop repairs and computer repairs to both business and personal clients throughout Stirling, Falkirk and Clackmannanshire.

For a list of what I can offer you why not visit my website www.comtech247.net where you will find a list of my services, testimonials, blog and much more!!